28 start-ups announced for New European Bauhaus accelerator programme

The New European Bauhaus (NEB) is an EU-backed initiative that calls on all Europeans to shape an alternative future for the continent – built on the core principles of sustainability, inclusivity and aesthetics. Along with our partners EIT Food, EIT Manufacturing, and EIT Urban Mobility, we lead the EIT Community NEB, whose role is to support on-the-ground projects that embody the values of the NEB movement.

In a business landscape where profit margins often outweigh societal impact, the Catalyse NEB start-up accelerator programme is an example of positive change. Launched last week at a special event in Leuven, Belgium, the programme features a record-setting cohort of 28 funded start-ups and represents a collaborative effort to support entrepreneurship that prioritises societal well-being alongside economic prosperity.

Integral to Catalyse NEB’s mission is its emphasis on nurturing start-ups that align with its core principles. In particular, the recognition of aesthetics and design beyond functionality allows the programme to highlight the beauty within innovation – making it more accessible and engaging for all.

A workshop at the Catalyse NEB launch event in Leuven, Belgium.

With support services worth a total of €50,000, each of the 28 start-ups will benefit from a range of resources tailored to boost their growth and impact during the one-year acceleration programme. From programme based on the core NEB principles to leadership coaching, business mentoring and access to a vibrant innovation community, Catalyse NEB offers a fertile ground for start-ups seeking to become international game-changers in an increasingly competitive market. 

The journey for this year’s Catalyse cohort is set to be an exciting one, full of opportunities for learning and collaboration. From forecasting their climate impact to refining their communication strategies, the programme offers a wealth of opportunities for growth and development. Perhaps the most anticipated event on the calendar is the Smart City Expo in November 2024, where all 28 start-ups will have the opportunity to showcase their innovations on a global stage. Through the programme, further amplifying their visibility and impact.

The launch event was the perfect opportunity to create new connections.

Meet the new Catalyse NEB cohort

From producing sunglasses made from fallen leaves to connecting consumers with local food producers, this year’s cohort spans 15 countries and is as diverse as it is innovative. Below, you can find links to each start-up’s website, as well as brief descriptions of the projects.

Austria

• Freyzein: Plastic-free clothing using a unique, 100% cellulose-based fabric.
• Vienna Textile Lab: Microbial dyes and pigments as an alternative to fossil-based, synthetic pigments.

Belgium

• ToGatherHomes: Next-generation affordable housing solutions that reduce cost, time and carbon footprint.

Denmark

• Naviblind: Empowering the visually impaired to move independently.
• Urban Tree: Innovative greening solution that combines nature with social interaction.

Estonia

• WasteLocker: Informed and structured in-house waste management.

Finland

• Ekotekt: Robotic 3D printing system to produce precast concrete elements.

France

• Istya: AI-driven HVAC control and customisable air quality sensors. 

Germany

• Footprint Intelligence: Sustainability platform for AI-based ESG reporting.
• Joy and Meal: Flexible on-site cooking experiences for families and corporate teams. 
• MycoLutions: Developing circular and healthy materials using mycelium.

Hungary

• SpaceCrop: Improving farming using satellite data and artificial intelligence.

Israel

• Maygia: Producing electricity and treating water using air and hydrogen.

Italy

• Coffeefrom: Producing thermoplastic materials from used coffee grounds.

Portugal

• Hortee: Online marketplace connecting consumers with local food producers.
• Seenergy: Eco-friendly household items designed to harness and store energy.
• SuperSave: Price comparison app for Portuguese supermarkets.

Romania

• Bluana: Food-tech start-up creating a plant-based seafood alternative.

Spain

• Comunitaria: Healthy and balanced nutrition for vulnerable families in the community.
• Remonda: Creating bioplastics using the waste products of fruit.
• Volupte: Bespoke interiors that celebrate individuality and sustainability.
• Waisense: Set of physical and digital solutions to save water across sectors.

Netherlands

• Biosphere Solar: Developing modular and sustainable solar panels.

United Kingdom

• Alga: Researching sustainable seaweed cultivation for nutrition.
• Boldr: Smart technology for lower domestic energy use.
• Eyeleaf: Plastic-free eyewear, innovatively crafted from fallen leaves.
• farmz2u: Supply chain management for agricultural value chains.
• IONA: Creating efficient delivery networks with drones and robotics.

As the new cohort of Catalyse start-ups begin their NEB journey, we invite you to follow their progress on the EIT Climate-KIC LinkedIn channel, and we look forward to sharing updates later in the year.